So instead of most likely making multiple threads and all that, I was wondering what books or guides you guys would recommend I pick up (or download) to learn the basics about networking and servers and all that. Also perhaps some literature specifically on something like Windows Server and Ubuntu. I'm hoping I can learn how to make my home network powerful and secure as well as manage my growing files.

I'm not planning on doing much yet other than setting up a file server and firewall but I hope that during the learning process I can find more uses for my computers like setting up an FTP server or make myself a VPN. I don't know but I know that with the knowledge I'd be able to make a handful of things a lot easier for me.

This is a bit of a broad question as the server and networking world is huge. If you were to want to look at Windows Server (which is my speciliast background by the way ) then what I suggest depends on one thing... Have you used Windows Server technologies before and if so, how much?

If you are very new to it then I suggest setting yourself up a virtual machine or 2 and installing the trial versions which are available online. From there you can find guides and information online about how to configure your basics such as DNS, DHCP, File server roles, Active Directory etc...

I have a very strong belief that the best way to learn is by doing. So go simple, just set up in a VM and have a play around, read up online, try things with it. Its virtual, you're not going to break anything. If using VMWare you can use the snapshot feature to take a snapshot of the system before you try something. Then if you break it, you can roll back without reinstalling.

Once you get the basic grasp of it, grab yourself a book from Microsoft or Sybex (There are loads more but these are the two I used). It will guide you through and explain many features in depth, enabling you to fully understand what it is you are doing.

Along with what The_Rocker has stated I often suggest video to my friends and family members that want to learn the basics or get a better understanding of computer related subjects.His vids often have step-by-step follow along instructions.